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Monday, November 3, 2008

Afternoon Tea Parties

Whether it’s a summer tea party in the garden or a cozy gathering in front of a roaring fire, afternoon tea is a treat any time of the year and the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion.

For a relaxed afternoon with friends, choose from an elegant Classic English Tea with finger sandwiches and Lemon Drizzle Cake; a Fireside Tea with Toasted Teacakes and Sticky Marzipan and Cherry Loaf; or an indulgent Champagne Tea with Smoked Salmon Crostini and Strawberries and Cream. There are ideas for special occasions too. Try a pretty Mother’s Day Tea with Victoria Sandwich Cake, or a romantic Valentine’s Tea, including Mini Dark Chocolate Eclairs. Girlie get-togethers include a Bridal Shower, a Sweet Sixteen Party and a Baby Shower.

The men are invited too! Why not prepare a Gentleman’s Tea, perfect for Father’s Day, or host a Russian Tea, with Blinis with Sour Cream and Caviar or an exotic Moroccan Tea with glasses of sweet Mint Tea and Almond and Orange Blossom Pastries. Fun ideas for adults and children alike include the circus-inspired Big Top Tea Party with Strongmen Sandwiches and Clown Cookies and a Teddy Bear’s Picnic with Gingerbread Bears.

The perfect book for tea party enthusiasts everywhere – brimming with ideas and delicious recipes to delight anyone looking for a fresh approach to this beloved tradition.

THE AUTHORSusannah Blake has written a number of books, including Coffee Indulgences and the international bestsellers Cupcake Heaven and Cupcakes (all for Ryland Peters & Small). Her work also appears in Livingetc, OK! and She magazines. Susannah lives in south London.